Anger over apartment tower bringing ‘new era’ to city’s oldest suburb
A controversial apartment tower and hotel complex will be built among historic buildings in one of the oldest parts of Brisbane in defiance of local resident anger over its suitability for the area.
Property developer Keylin has won Brisbane City Council approval to construct two 15-level towers on the corner of Gregory Terrace and Warry St at Spring Hill, a section of the city known for its heritage building.
The development will take prime position overlooking nearby Victoria Park – itself slated for transformation from golf course to massive public recreational green space.
Keylin said the complex would “herald a new era for Spring Hill while maintaining the local character and rich heritage of the area”.
However, the approval comes despite more than 300 people signing a petition to the council demanding it be stopped.
The petition said the development would go up in the middle of Brisbane’s oldest suburb, renowned for its character housing and structures, would increase traffic congestion around the nearby Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and prevent natural light from reaching neighbouring properties.
“Petitioners believe that the current development application is not in accordance with the local surrounds and does not acknowledge the historical and cultural significance of Spring Hill,” it said.
The council has placed 165 separate conditions on its approval of the development, including protecting adjoining heritage places and infrastructure.
Keylin’s project director Ian de Kretser said Spring Hill would benefit from the development through the creation of more jobs and “continuing the suburb’s rich cultural heritage”.
“This development is one that the community can be proud of, combining local character and rich heritage with communal amenity and contemporary activation,” he said.
“Spring Hill is fast becoming Brisbane’s answer to Central Park, and this development will offer a front-row seat to the suburb’s transformation.”
Keylin insists the towers will be built in art-deco style in keeping with the area’s heritage. It anticipates the development’s 113 apartments and 120-room hotel will spark interest from those working at the hospital and whose children are studying at the three prestige private schools on Gregory Terrace.
